In the Award Winning "Rekindled
Faith" by Philip DeLizio, two 14-year-old girls from diverse
backgrounds, Olivia and Janice form an unlikely friendship. Olivia,
from an affluent family, struggles to connect with her faith
despite her privileged life. Janice, who has faced immense hardship
after losing her parents, finds solace in her strong faith and
works to support her grandmother. As their friendship blossoms,
they face opposition from their peers and families, testing the
strength of their bond. Through misunderstandings, personal crises,
and societal pressures, Olivia and Janice must navigate their
differences while staying true to their friendship. Their journey
leads them to a deeper understanding of their faith and the power
of forging true connections in the face of adversity. "Rekindled
Faith" is a heartwarming story of hope, empathy, and the resilience
of friendship, offering a powerful message about the impact of
love, compassion, and forgiveness in overcoming societal
divisions.
A Sunday Morning at Church
The sun shone through the windows of the Westside Community Church, casting beams of light across the wooden pews. Hymns of praise echo off the high ceiling as the congregation sings in acapella, harmonious union. There is a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with pews arranged in neat rows facing the altar. The altar itself is adorned with flowers and candles, creating a peaceful and sacred space.
This is a place that encourages reflection and reverence. Olivia sat between her parents, tugging at the fancy dress her mother had picked out. She always found the sermons a bit dull, even if the message of faith and goodness was important. Gazing up, she wonders what Jesus would say to make faith feel truly alive. As the service neared its close, Olivia fidgeted with the hem of her skirt. She spied her little brother playing with toy figurines near the aisle and stifled a giggle.